£300,000 /Sale price

Retire In Style to Barton Farm A two bedroom cottage converted from 18th century farm buildings with conservatory and garage. The property is located on a purpose-built retirement development for the over 55s/60s. Management services are provided by Cognatum Estates, a not-for-profit organisation and one of the UK's leading companies in retirement housing. A magnificent 14th-Century Grade I tithe barn, with beautiful square-knapped flints, is the backdrop for Barton Farm. The old courtyard retains much of its serenity and charm, and the dairy and coach house, the stables and Molly's barn, where chickens used to live, are all now converted into delightful properties. There are more cottages, all with conservatories, around a second courtyard that leads on to The Folly and village centre. Alongside the landscaped gardens runs the river Cerne, in reality little more than a chalk steam, and several acres of meadowland to enjoy. Cerne Abbas is set in some of the most beautiful Dorset countryside and is best known for its Giant hill figure, now owned by the National Trust. The village has a variety of shops, pubs and restaurants and hosts a popular annual music festival in the lovely setting of St Mary's church. This is the heart of Thomas Hardy country, and the tithe barn next to Barton Farm is believed to feature in his works. Dorchester, with its bars and bistros, interesting museums, glorious gardens and river walks, is not far away, and the incredible beaches at Lulworth, Chesil and Weymouth Coves can be reached within 30 minutes. Cognatum Estates maintains, repairs and insures all the buildings, arranges the window cleaning and refuse collection and tends to the gardens and grounds thereby freeing owners and residents from these responsibilities. There is a personal alarm system in each property and resident estate managers are on hand to provide support and help when needed, making this an ideal 'Lock Up & Leave' property. The cost of providing these services is shared equally between all properties. There are no restrictions on owning a property except that one resident must be over 55 years of age. 999 year lease (from 1984). No ground rent. For viewings please contact the Estate Manager /